Kathenotheism

Kathenotheism

(Καθ᾿ ἑνὸς θεός, each one a god) is a term devised by Prof. Max Miller (Rig Veda, i, 164, 460) to designate the doctrine of divine unity in diversity as unfolded in the sacred writings of the Hindus. He rejects the term polytheism on the ground that the Hindus, in their worship, ever ascribe to one god the attributes of all the others. Thus in one hymn, ascribed to Manu, the poet says, "Among you, O gods, there is none that is small, none that is young; you are all great in deed."... "And what more could human language achieve," asks the professor, " in trying to express the idea of a divine and supreme power?... This is surely not what is commonly understood by polytheism. Yet it would be equally wrong to call it monotheism. If we must have a name for it, I should call it Kathenotheism"' (Chips, i, 28). See also Tyler, Primitive Culture (Loud. 1871, 2 vols. 8vo), ii, 321. (J. H.W.)